Ben Mosley
Celebrating Victory: The England Rugby Squad of 2003, Live Painting at the Dorchester.
In November 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to create a special piece of art commemorating England’s memorable Rugby World Cup win of 2003. The event took place at the illustrious Dorchester Hotel in London, where I painted live during the Champions Dinner, surrounded by the very legends I aimed to honour.
The title of my piece, “31 Champions,” reflects the unity and spirit of the 2003 England rugby team, which made history by clinching the World Cup against Australia when Jonny Wilkinson unleashed his famous right foot drop-kick to create history. This artwork, measuring 100×100 cm, was crafted using a rich blend of acrylic paint and adorned with 24k gold and other precious metals. The gold in the piece metaphorically symbolises the extraordinary achievement associated with that glorious win.
A Tribute to Teamwork
What makes “31 Champions” a unique piece of sporting history is that every single player from that victorious squad is represented in the painting. Their camaraderie and commitment are encapsulated in the imagery of the 31 players huddled together, showcasing their unwavering support for one another. The team’s logo is carefully incorporated, reinforcing the essence of unity that defines their team spirit.
It was wonderful that the entire squad signed the back of the painting, adding a personal touch that hopefully will enhance its value..
